A healthy body functions best at an internal temperature of about 37°C (98.6°F), although we have different people with different systems of which their internal temperature may differ depending on the individual "normal" body temperature, which may be slightly higher or lower than the standard one given above. Our bodies also constantly adapt their temperature to environmental conditions. For instance, It increases when we exercise, and it is lower at night, and higher in the afternoon than in the morning.
The internal body temperature is regulated by a part of the brain called the HYPOTHALAMUS. The hypothalamus checks the current temperature and compares it with the normal temperaturel (37°C). If the temperature is too low, the hypothalamus makes sure that the body generates enough heat and maintains the generated heat. On the other hand, if the current body temperature of an individual is too high, heat is given off and sweat is produced to reduce the heat in the system.
Note that, body temperature refers to the temperature in the hypothalamus and in the vital internal organs. Because we cannot measure the temperature inside these organs, temperature is taken on parts of the body that are more accessible. But these measurements are always slightly inaccurate.
What causes a fever?
Fever is likely to occur when the brain of an individual sets the body temperature higher than normal which may happen as a result of the presence of germs such as viruses or bacteria, and it can also happen as a result of reaction to substances that are made by the body, such as prostaglandins (manufactured in the body to fight germs).
A body temperature of 38°C (100.4°F) or more is considered to be a fever. Temperatures above 39.5°C (103.1°F) are considered to be a high fever, and very high fever is defined as any temperature above 41°C (105.8°F). A temperature between 37.5°C and 38°C is an elevated body temperature.
Regulation of body temperature doesn't always work perfectly in younger children, Compared to teenagers and adults.
they also sweat less when it is warm, and it takes longer for them to start sweating. That is why they are more likely to react with a fever. Babies and young children have a higher body temperature than adults. This is because their body surface area is larger in relation to their body weight. Their metabolism is more active too. Newborns usually have an average body temperature of 37.5°C.
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